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California Reservoirs Overflowing: Drought Fears Washed Away
21 Nov
Summary
- All major reservoirs are at or above 100 percent of historical average.
- Statewide storage is at 115 percent of normal, holding nearly 6 trillion gallons.
- Recent atmospheric rivers reversed drought conditions in Southern California.
California's major reservoirs are currently holding substantial water reserves, with all key sources operating at or above 100 percent of their historical average for this time of year. This abundance signifies a remarkable turnaround from recent drought conditions, providing critical relief to the state's nearly 40 million residents and its agricultural sector.
Statewide water storage has reached an impressive 115 percent of normal, accumulating nearly six trillion gallons. This surge is largely attributed to a series of atmospheric rivers that delivered significant precipitation and snowpack, particularly in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Recent rainfall has also successfully erased drought conditions in Southern California counties.
Despite the current surplus, state officials emphasize the ongoing need for vigilant water management. California remains vulnerable to climate extremes, and a return to dry conditions could quickly diminish these gains. Therefore, continued monitoring of snowpack and reservoir inflows, alongside investment in infrastructure, remains essential for preparing for future water challenges.
